Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a breakthrough in medical science. The technology gives physicians the incredible ability to view detailed images of the inside of a person’s body without making a single incision. These images are useful in diagnosing a wide variety of illnesses and diseases. MRI scans can pinpoint tumors, identify heart disease, and recognize other anomalies that may be present in the human body. Longhorn Imaging sets the standard for Austin MRI. When you need an MRI in Austin, Cedar Park, Killeen, Bastrop, or Onion Creek, choose Longhorn Imaging for confident and trusted medical imaging and MRI services. 

Originally developed in the 1970’s, MRI machines use a combination of magnetic fields and radio waves to create high-definition images of a body’s soft tissues. Because soft tissue is mostly made of water, magnets on either end of the scanner alter the water’s polarity such that the scanner can interpret it. This method produces a layer-by-layer reconstruction of a person’s entire body. The diagnostic importance of having such a comprehensive picture of a person’s inner organs cannot be overstated. These machines have taken much of the guesswork out of diagnosing diseases.

If you have an issue that requires a diagnostic scan, contact Longhorn Imaging at (512) 444-8900 to speak with a courteous member of our staff. We can help you determine exactly which scan would be best for your situation and will administer your scan in a timely and professional manner.

Benefits of MRI

MRI’s have many benefits that make them superior to diagnostic imaging methods. Unlike X-Rays, they do not shower patients with bursts of radiation. MRI’s allow medical professionals to get an incredibly detailed picture of a patient’s interior without making a single incision. The image allows doctors to plan exactly where and how to perform a surgery since they will have a detailed picture of what is happening inside the body. MRI scans also have these added benefits:

• Painless
• No recovery period
• Less likely to produce an allergic reaction than a CT scan

MRI benefits are numerous. However, because of the great deal of expertise that goes into operating the machine and reading the images, they are more expensive than X-Rays. MRI scans also require more time to complete than X-rays. Even so, your medical insurance may cover the costs of getting an MRI scan at Longhorn Imaging. Be sure to visit our insurance page or give us a phone call to learn more about accepted coverage.

Getting an MRI

The process of getting an MRI can seem scary, but we want to reduce your anxiety by letting you know what to expect from the scan. The machine is essentially a huge cylinder, with a platform that slides in and out of it. A patient lies on this platform and is fed into the cylinder, where the magnets and radio waves perform the scan. Inside the scanner, patients sometimes feel slight discomfort from being in an enclosed space. The machine may also make some loud noises as the magnets become electrically charged and the scanner powers on.

However, the most challenging part for many people is staying still during the scan. Patients must remain as stationary as possible while the scan is taking place to ensure that the picture physicians receive is as clear as possible. A scan can take as long as 20 minutes to complete, but they are generally faster than that.

Contact a Diagnostic Imaging Center

If you or someone you know needs a diagnostic scan such as an MRI, call Longhorn Imaging at (512) 444-8900 to begin scheduling your appointment. With a compassionate staff and three locations, our technicians can help you make it through this process comfortably and quickly.

MRI Austin and Central Texas Locations

If you’re in need of an MRI, Longhorn Imaging has several convenient locations in the Austin and Central Texas areas. We have MRI locations in South Austin, Central Austin, Cedar Park, Killeen, Bastrop, and Onion Creek. No matter the radiology or medical imaging service you are looking for, give us a call or send us a message on our contact form and one of our trained patient care coordinators will be happy to answer your questions and get you set up with an appointment.